Remarkable Level of New Development - With the Municipal Election set for October 20, Councillor Mohammed Idriss points to the remarkable level of new development as one of Councils most significant achievements. Addressing the housing shortage was a top priority, and Council took decisive action to reduce red tape and incentivize development. The results have been striking—last year, the city issued a record number of development permits, reaching levels not seen in decades.

Idriss has worked to ensure a broad range of voices are represented in our city’s decision-making process. “I take great pride in leveraging my community connections to engage with different sectors and be a strong voice for them at the Council table.” Among his key initiatives are the creation of a youth committee and an inclusion committee.

Idriss remains committed and energized to serve the community and build on this momentum. “Looking back on the past few years, I’m proud of what this Council has achieved, but I also recognize there is still much work to be done.”

Volunteer at the Market! The Brooks Farmers’ Market doesn’t just happen—If you love the market and want to be part of Growing the BEST little farmers’ market – B.eautiful. E.ngaging. S.hopping. Tourist attraction – there’s a role for you! Setup Crew, Greeter & Info Tent, Photography, Vendor Support, Data Collector, Close-down Crew.

THANK YOU to those who have already responded 🙌

Development Debate - Several residents raised concerns at the public hearing for the proposed rezoning of 2 Street East and Kellington Close East from Residential Single Detached to Residential Medium Density. The lot currently contains a 1940s-era house. Concerns included:

• Parking shortages, especially with no back alley access.

• Increased traffic on an already busy street.

• Potential property value impacts in a primarily single-family neighbourhood.

• Changes to the neighbourhood’s character and aesthetics.

Multiple residents suggested that a duplex would be more appropriate than a four-plex or eight-plex. Mayor Petrie noted that there is no clear evidence that property values would decline and that parking concerns are addressed during the development permit stage. Council voted to rezone the lot to Residential Medium Density.

SAEWA Waste-to-Energy - (SAEWA) is finalizing an agreement with Global Green to advance waste-to-energy initiatives in the Brooks Newell Region, reducing landfill use while generating power. Councillor Juska will be on a panel at a provincial debate on waste-to-energy.

Rejoining Regional Emergency Plan - City Council discussed whether Brooks should rejoin the Newell Regional Emergency Management Plan. The City was part of a regional emergency plan until 2019 but left to address its own urban needs separately from the County’s rural concerns. A strong emergency plan means faster response times, better coordination, and more resources during crises like natural disasters, fires, or severe weather events.

Street Improvements - the 2025 Street Improvement Program (SIP) focuses on overlay replacements, improving road quality, reducing noise, and sealing surfaces to handle heavy traffic and reducing long-term maintenance costs. The total cost of the 2025 SIP is $1,090,758.

• 1st Avenue from 3rd Street East - 7th Street East

• 4th Avenue from 3rd Street West to 10th Street West

• 4th Street West from 2nd Avenue to 3rd Avenue

• 4th Street West from Cassils Road to 3rd Avenue

• Young Road West from Veiner Road

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